SECP acts to up investor awreness

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ISLAMABAD: The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) on Friday organized "Investors'Feedback Programme" to seek feedback of entities on measures required to build investor confidence and increase investor participation in the capital market activities.

The programme was organized in collaboration with the Karachi Stock Exchange (KSE) and National Clearing Company of Pakistan (NCCPL) in Karachi, said a statement received here.

Representatives of all major capital market intermediaries including brokers, mutual funds, insurance companies, banks/DFIs and corporate pension funds and major brokerage houses attended the programme.

The organizers also highlighted key institutional reforms introduced in the capital market that have significantly reduced market risk, added transparency, and enhanced transactional efficiency.

The programme proved instrumental in brainstorming ideas and steps must be taken in various segments of the capital market both primary and secondary.

The participants deliberated upon suggestions floated in relation to improving activity in various stock market products bringing-in liquidity, expanding the outreach of the market to the masses for increasing the retail investor base and various fiscal reforms needed for creating level playing field.

Measures were also discussed for improved governance at capital market intermediaries and institutions, including internal workings at these entities, greater operational efficiency, enhanced risk management, combating market abuse, investor protection and awareness and encouraging new listings though reforms in the initial public offering and book building processes etc.

The participants appreciated the initiative of investor forum and termed it as a right step in the right direction.

The feedback from the meeting will be discussed with the capital market infrastructure institutions to transform the suggestions into practical steps and carry out requisite regulatory reforms for facilitating the capital market participants.

While reiterating its commitment to the development of the Pakistani capital market, the SECP assured the participants of closer coordination with the stakeholder on all major capital market policies and reforms. (APP)